Crossword Genius

Go out without having lift (3,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nod off

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'go' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their base form, I can't see how one could define the other.

'without having lift' is the wordplay.
'without' becomes 'no'.
'having' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'lift' becomes 'doff' (as in doffing your hat).
'no'+'doff'='NOD OFF'

'out' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nod off that I've seen before include "Fall asleep with head movement?" , "Become drowsy with moving cranium" , "Doze" , "Fall asleep with head movements" , "'Fall asleep (3,3)'" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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